Mumbai Indian, decline the request of Royal Challengers Bengaluru to host home matches at Mumbai of IPL 2026

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), proposal to host matches of IPL 2026 at D.Y Patil Stadium, but the Mumbai Indians have reportedly declined to issue a no-objective certifcate (NOC). Due to safety reasons, RCB is not hosting any large-scale events at Chinnaswamy Stadium.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s home ground, Chinnaswamy Stadium, is undergoing extensive safety upgrades. The renovation follows a tragic stampede on June 4th, 2025, during the victory parade of RCB’s maiden IPL title win, which claimed to have taken 11 lives and left several people injured. The incident prompts a comprehensive review of crowd management and stadium infrastructure in Chinnaswamy, leading authorities to enhance the safety of the crowd before the venue can reopen for larger-scale events.

RCB has proposed temporarily shifting matches to the Navi Mumbai D.Y. Patil Stadium, but the Mumbai Indians oppose the move. The five-time champion Mumbai Indians reportedly decline to issue a no-objection certificate (NOC), a requirement for hosting another franchise’s designated home games within the Mumbai Cricketing Jurisdiction. MI has suggested RCB look out for other alternative venues outside Mumbai, such as Indore or Raipur, arguing that hosting a rival team’s match could dilute the local fan loyalty.

Holhar Stadium, based in Indore, has emerged as the frontrunner to host most of RCB’s relocated fixtures, given given it’s modern facilities and history of successfully hosting IPL matches. Raipur also comes as an option.

Meanwhile, fans from both camps have exchanged spirited comments on social media. RCB supporters claim MI is concerned that Bengaluru’s strong traveling fan base can overshadow home support for Mumbai. As the discussion continues, the IPL governing council’s final decision will be closely watched, balancing logistical practicality, competitive fairness and fan sentiments.